FORT LEE, Va. — The Army Emergency Relief campaign officially kicked off Wednesday evening at Fort Lee as senior leaders gathered to sign the annual AER proclamation, reaffirming the installation’s commitment to supporting Soldiers and Families through financial assistance and readiness programs.
The ceremony brought together Commanding General of U.S. Army Combined Arms Support Command and Sustainment Center of Excellence, Maj. Gen. Sean P. Davis; CASCOM Command Sgt. Maj. James A. LaFratta; Garrison Commander Col. Rich J. Bendelewski; and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Nickea K. Harris, who each signed the proclamation signaling the start of this year’s campaign.
Bendelewski opened the event with remarks highlighting the importance of community support and the Army’s shared responsibility to take care of Soldiers and their Families.
“The strength of our Army comes from people helping people,” Bendelewski said. “Army Emergency Relief reflects the heart of who we are — a commitment to ensuring no Soldier faces hardship alone.”
Davis emphasized the lasting impact the organization has had across the force, noting that many of the senior leaders gathered in the room understood the program’s value firsthand.
“The majority of the officers and senior enlisted leaders here today likely would not be where they are without the assistance AER has provided at some point in their careers,” Davis said. “It is a program built on compassion, trust and investment in Soldiers.”
Army Emergency Relief, a nonprofit organization founded in 1942, provides grants, interest-free loans and scholarships to Soldiers and their Families during times of financial need. Assistance can include help with emergency travel, food, rent, utilities and other unexpected expenses, helping maintain readiness and stability across the force.
The proclamation signing serves as a symbolic beginning to the installation’s campaign, encouraging Soldiers, civilians and community members to learn about AER resources and support the program’s mission throughout the year.
Leaders concluded the ceremony by encouraging continued awareness of the services available through AER, emphasizing that seeking help early can prevent financial hardship and strengthen overall unit readiness.
As the campaign began, Fort Lee officials said the goal remains clear — ensuring Soldiers and Families know help is available when they need it most.
| Date Taken: |
03.02.2026 |
| Date Posted: |
03.02.2026 14:33 |
| Story ID: |
559211 |
| Location: |
FORT LEE, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: |
35 |
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0 |
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